Former Bok flanker Andre Venter will present the matchday 22 with their Springbok jerseys on Friday.

The Free State hardman performed this duty ahead of last year’s Test season opener against England. The Boks won 58-10 and both John Smit and Jake White lauded Venter’s simple yet powerful message the day before the match.

Bok coach Peter de Villiers was just as thrilled to have Venter accepting the invitation. After 66 Tests for the Boks Venter was confined to a wheelchair in 2006 due to a crippling virus. Despite his disability, he still manages to inspire so many.

“Andre was the obvious choice to present the jerseys to the guys,” said De Villiers. “We are very honoured that he accepted our invitation.

“He was the model Springbok during his career, and his bravery and courage in dealing with the tough cards life has dealt him since his retirement serve as inspiration to us all.

“I could think of no-one better to launch our four-year journey than him.”